I remember watching Kib Montalbo’s early games in the PBA and thinking, "This guy’s got hustle." It’s not just about the numbers—though they do tell part of the story—but the way he moves on the court, that relentless energy that makes you sit up and take notice. Over the seasons, Montalbo has carved out a role as a dependable guard, someone who can disrupt offenses, push the tempo, and occasionally light it up from beyond the arc. Let’s talk stats for a moment: in the 2022-2023 season, he averaged around 7.5 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. Now, those might not be eye-popping figures, but when you watch him play, you realize how much of his impact doesn’t show up in the box score. His defensive pressure, for instance, often forces turnovers that lead to easy baskets for his team. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve seen him dive for loose balls or stick to his assignment like glue, even in the final minutes of a tight game.

One performance that stands out in my mind was a match where his teammate, CJ Cansino, exploded for 22 points and nine rebounds for Meralco. That game was a perfect example of how players like Montalbo help create opportunities for others. While Cansino rightfully grabbed headlines, it was Montalbo’s playmaking and defensive stops that helped set the tone early. I recall one particular sequence where Montalbo stripped the ball near mid-court, drove down the lane, and dished it to an open shooter—all in the span of about five seconds. Plays like that might not always make the highlight reels, but they’re the kind of efforts that win games. Honestly, I’ve always been a fan of players who do the dirty work, and Montalbo fits that mold perfectly. He’s not the flashiest guy out there, but he’s the type of player you’d want on your team when the game is on the line.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to see where his journey takes him. At 26 years old, he’s entering what many consider the prime years for a professional athlete. I wouldn’t be surprised if his scoring average climbs to around 10-12 points per game next season, especially if he continues to develop his outside shot. Last year, he shot about 34% from three-point range—decent, but there’s room for growth. If he can bump that up to 38% or higher, he’ll become an even bigger threat. Plus, with his work ethic, I’m betting he’ll sharpen his decision-making in pick-and-roll situations. Montalbo’s future isn’t just about personal stats, though; it’s about how he fits into the bigger picture. Teams need glue guys, and he’s proven he can be that. I’d love to see him take on more leadership, maybe even become a vocal presence in the locker room. Whatever happens, one thing’s for sure: Kib Montalbo’s PBA journey is far from over, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what he does next.